Minneapolis Mayor, Other Dems Snub Ilhan Omar And Endorse Don Samuels

MINNEAPOLIS — Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and four other local mayors have endorsed candidate Don Samuels over 5th District Rep. Ilhan Omar ahead of Tuesday's primary.

Frey, along with Jake Spano of St. Louis Park, Shep Harris of Golden Valley, Jim Hovland of Edina, and Kathi Hemken of New Hope announced their support Thursday.

"As our city and nation navigate great challenges, we need partners across levels of government who prioritize teamwork, collaboration, and a seriousness of approach to match the seriousness of the issues we face. This is an endorsement for someone who’s shown an ability to do just that," Frey said.

Also read: Patch Candidate Profile: Don Samuels For U.S. House

"As the Chair of the Public Safety committee on the city council, Don Samuels fought tirelessly against the violence in neighborhoods across Minneapolis, helping to lower crime by double digits," Frey continued. "Don has been an advocate for his community on the Northside for decades, and someone who has worked with city leaders to bring investment to underserved communities. Whether it’s the 5th ward or the 5th district, Don Samuels puts his constituents first. I think he will be an excellent representative."

In the 2020 election, Omar worked to keep Frey from a second term. The effort ultimately failed as Frey overcame challenges from progressives Kate Knuth and Sheila Nezhad, women who were both backed by Omar.

Omar also backed the ballot measure to dismantle and replace the Minneapolis Police Department in the 2021 election, which failed. Frey opposed the measure, while Knuth and Nezhand supported it.

"Effective leadership is about making a point and delivering tangible results for your residents," said Mayor Jake Spano of St. Louis Park.

"That means sitting down at the table with people who you disagree with and working things out in the best interest of your constituents. Don Samuels is a proven leader who has improved his north Minneapolis community for decades. I support Don because I know that he will go to Washington and make a difference for my neighbors."

Samuels has also been endorsed by the Star Tribune editorial board.

Meanwhile, Omar has received endorsements from top Democrats including Sen. Bernie Sanders, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

She's also received backing from Minneapolis City Council members Jeremiah Ellison, Andrea Jenkins, Aisha Chughtai, and Andrew Johnson.